Christmas Talk in September

When I was growing up, my mom was affectionately referred to as  "Mrs. Christmas" by some people in our church.  She earned a reputation for being "ahead of the game", and helping people to start thinking about Christmas early in order to plan for Christmas productions, choirs, and other events.  Someone had to get the ball rolling, right?  I think that the comments have somewhat died down for my mom, but my conversation with friends last night reminded me of her endearing title!

The Christmas talk came about at the end of an evening with friends last night. Jake and I were invited to our friend's dog's 4th birthday party (we even had to wear 'dog ears')!  After playing a few rounds of Scattegories, our conversation spanned from inventing new biathlons (horseback javelin and shot putt archery, to name a few), to sharing Christmas memories.  We started discussing ways to celebrate Christmas together.  We began compiling a list of favorite Christmas movies, set three tentative dates to watch them, talked about going caroling, and made plans for an uggly Christmas sweater party. Since we are all young couples living away from our families (and don't have kids), we're hoping to spread the cheer this year amongst ourselves, and are looking forward to admiring each others' trees!  As we were driving home, Jake and I were getting excited about the thought of Christmas with our new friends.

So as the air is barely turning crisp, and as I bake pumpkin muffins, cinnamon apples and wonder whether it's too early to decorate with gourds, my thoughts drift a few months ahead to that wonderful season.  Forgive me if you're not ready to hear about it yet.  Perhaps the "Mrs. Christmas" title is a legacy that I am destined to continue.  Thanks, Mommy!

Until then, Happy Fall!